Keep this philosophy in mind when considering the next-to-no makeup look: "Nude makeup is to add dimension, not color," says makeup artist Lauren Cosenza. "Think of it as an effect."

Follow these expert tips to help you select and apply nude shades for eyes, cheeks, lips, and even nails that won't wash you out.

Photo Credit: Adriana M. Barraza, WENN.com

Set the Tone

Because nude makeup is supposed to simulate your own skin tone, make sure the shades you choose have a complementary undertone. (See how Gabrielle Union, Hilary Duff, and Mila Kunis all wear nude shades right for their complexion.)

Avoid choosing makeup that's too beige. "Many women with pale skin make the mistake of choosing a beige nude," warns celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic. "The combo will almost always wash you out." He points out that dark-skinned women can make the same mistake: "Beige nudes will lend an ashy look due to the lack of red pigment."

Photo Credit: WENN.com

Look for Dimension

Once you've selected the right nude shade for your skin tone, the finish of the makeup item is key. "Be sure to choose shadows and blushes with shimmer to add dimension to nude colors," says Carmindy. We love MAC Eyeshadow in Shroom, a glimmery, champagne-hued neutral that flashes peach in the light, similar to what Michelle Tractenberg wears here.

Nude can become unflattering when it's too opaque. "The important thing is that the product reflects the light," says Carmindy. "If the shade is too flat, it can look dusty and chalky — like you're erasing yourself." And that's the opposite of the goal, right?

Photo Credit: WENN.com

Get Even

To keep the effect natural, it's best to start out with a moisturizer mixed with a medium-coverage foundation to even out your skin tone. One of the best skin perfectors is Philosophy The Supernatural Superbeautiful Super Healthy Hybrid Makeup SPF 20.

The goal is to create a flawless canvas with a radiant finish, which Keira Knightley shows off here. Mix it with your favorite moisturizer in equal parts on the back of your hand (your body heat will help it blend), then apply it with a foundation brush for gorgeous, air-brushed skin.

Photo Credit: WENN.com

Layer Lip Color

When going nude, a common misconception is that you should use flesh tones on either the lips or the eyes. Carmindy says, "Forget it — you can do it all!" She advises that if the overall effect is too subdued, you can simply layer a bit of soft pink lipstick on top of your nude shade for a hint of color. Emma Stone gives gorgeous lip service to a nude lip in Avon lipstick in Bare Hug.

To ensure your lip look will last the night, Dedivanovic suggests first lining the lip with a nude pencil in a shade as close as possible to the lipstick or gloss you intend to use.

Photo Credit: WENN.com

Keep Warm

Keep your face monochromatic but still warm by amping up your complexion with a cream blush formula instead of powder. "Powder blushes in nude shades can come off a bit dusty," Carmindy says.

Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush in Peach Satin will bring life to your complexion while maintaining a subdued nude look. (Rose McGowan provides blush inspiration above.) Apply it to the apples of your cheeks (smile to make it easier to find them) with fingertips, then blend in a circular motion.

Photo Credit: WENN.com

Hit the Highlights

Nude makeup should usually have a hint of shimmer, but a matte effect can definitely make an attractive impact, says makeup artist Dedivanovic. "One of my favorite nude looks is to pair a matte lip, a matte eye shadow, and a bronzer with a sheer highlighter like Eye M Glam by Giella swept on the cheekbones." (Check out his artistry on Kim Kardashian if you need more convincing.) "The look is fresh and pretty," Dedivanovic says.

Apply a highlighter to the brow bone, cupid's bow, and the top half of the bridge of the nose as well. Why the top of the nose only? Painting a stripe down the entire length can make a prominent nose look larger.

Photo Credit: WENN.com

Nail Neutrals
Nails aren't exempt from the need for nude. Mannequin-effect nails were all over the runways at New York Fashion Week in recent seasons, and the look is easy to achieve at home. Sofia Vergara wore the nude manicure recently on the red carpet.

Find a shade that matches your hands as closely as possible. Daily Glow editors are wearing CND polish in Putty, a pale beige. The shade creates an elongating effect on the fingers, making the hands look ultra-ladylike. Don't skimp on the topcoat; a healthy shine will dress up this go-with-anything neutral.

Photo Credit: WENN.com

Nail Neutrals

Nails aren't exempt from the need for nude. Mannequin-effect nails were all over the runways at New York Fashion Week in recent seasons, and the look is easy to achieve at home. Sofia Vergara wore the nude manicure recently on the red carpet.

Find a shade that matches your hands as closely as possible. Daily Glow editors are wearing CND polish in Putty, a pale beige. The shade creates an elongating effect on the fingers, making the hands look ultra-ladylike. Don't skimp on the topcoat; a healthy shine will dress up this go-with-anything neutral.

Photo Credit: WENN.com

Up Next

See Gallery

Discover More Like This

HIDE CAPTION

SHOW CAPTION

of

SEE ALL

BACK TO SLIDE

Everyone can look great nude! Follow these expert tips on finding the right barely-there shades, how to apply them, and giving your skin a fresh-faced glow.